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Ford RS Gallery

Rumours of the return of the Focus RS are reaching fever pitch, but it should come as no surprise Ford is taking its time over the all-new hot hatch when you look at the badge heritage.

December 2007

Here we take a look at some of the finest models every to wear the RS badge. With everything from the Capri to the first generation Focus, there’s something to suit all drivers. Whether you prefer rear or front-wheel drive, some sort of Ford RS model is sure to feature on any car enthusiast’s wish list.

Take a look and see if you can spot your favourite.
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Escort RS1600   RS2600   Escort RS1600i   RS200
1. Escort RS1600
This is the car that started the legend - the RS1600. Developed for rallying, it used the famous BDA engine that was co-designed by Cosworth. The hot hatch of its day it, boasted 120bhp and could sprint from 0-60mph in around 8 seconds.


  
2. RS2600
One of the rarest RS cars of all is the Capri RS2600. Built to dominate touring car racing, it packs a 150bhp 2.6-litre V6. The very first examples had weight-saving glassfibre doors, boot and bonnet, while the cabin did without a heater and paint.


  
3. Escort RS1600i
Here's another RS Ford that existed purely for motorsport. It may look like an XR3i, but it featured bespoke engine parts, aerodynamic tweaks and suspension that allowed maximum flexibility for both gravel stage and racing circuit.


  
4. RS200
Could this be the ultimate RS Ford? With four-wheel drive, a mid-mounted motor and lightweight bodywork it was intended to compete in the fearsome Group B rally category. Final 2.1-litre evolution rallycross cars put out a stunning 650bhp.
 
Escort RS Turbo   Sierra RS Cosworth   RS500 Cosworth   Escort RS Cosworth
5. Escort RS Turbo
During the Eighties the RS Turbo was the hot hatch to catch. With 132bhp from just 1.6-litres , it proved to be a real road rocket. It was the first front-drive car to get a viscous limited slip differential, meaning grip and handling were actually very good.


  
6. Sierra RS Cosworth
The word 'legend' doesn't do the Cosworth justice. Thanks to a 204bhp turbocharged motor it gave the man in the street supercar performance. Built to Group A regulations it was equally capable of winning rallies as it was races.


 
7. RS500 Cosworth
Just 500 of these Cosworth evolutions were made. Power was upped to 224bhp, while the body got a sprinkling of extra spoilers. Factory supported cars won the WTCC in 1987 and pumped out an awsome 550bhp.


  
8. Escort RS Cosworth
Underneath the pumped up Escort bodywork lurked a Sierra RS Cosworth 4x4 chassis. Conceived to take WRC honours it also proved to be a rapid road car. The massive boot mounted spoiler actually generated downforce.
 
Puma Racing   Fiesta RS Concept   X-Press van   Focus RS
9. Puma Racing
The Puma is an RS in all but name. Underneath the bulging sheetmetal was a 150bhp version of the 1.7-litre motor. Widened and stiffened suspension made the Tickford built car a razor-sharp driving experience.


  
10. Fiesta RS Concept
This is the RS that never was. Based on the Fiesta Junior World Rally car, the Concept had a 180bhp motor, widened track and 18-inch wheels. Sadly it never got further than the Geneva Show stand it debuted on in 2005.


  
11. X-Press van
This could be the ultimate courier's vehicle. Underneath the Transit Connect body is a Focus RS. With no weight and 212bhp it offered blistering performance. Inside there was just two racing seats and a roll cage.


  
12. Focus RS
This was the last Ford to bear the coveted RS badge. With a 212bhp turbocharged motor, a trick front diff and super stiff suspension it was a hardcore machine. Just 4,500 were built in 12 months.
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